Tropical Farm Destinations

Farm stays, or agritourist, present a unique alternative to travelers seeking to go off the beaten path. When travelers go to these farms, they participate in different aspects of the local agriculture industry. This can mean picking pineapples in Hawaii, working on a coffee plantation in Costa Rica, rice farming in Thailand, or organic farming in the Philippines. Agritourist can serve as a link between the indigenous communities and visitors that fosters broader cross-cultural understanding. Tourists can have once-in-a-lifetime experiences while feeling positive about being able to contribute to local hosts.

Pineapple Plantations in Hawaii:

For tourists who are drawn to the lush, mountainous islands of Hawaii but still want to learn about the local industries, Maui’s pineapple plantations are an attractive option. Visitors can learn about and participate in the farm-to-table movement that is sweeping the island chain. In addition to volunteering on farms, tourists have the opportunity to sample the fruits of their labor and go on day trip excursions to other parts of the island.

Coffee Growing in Costa Rica:

Visitors hoping to gain insight into the rich history and ecology need look no further than rural Costa Rica. The volcanos in the area fertilize the soil, making the region ideal for growing coffee. Those wishing to learn about the coffee industry can go on day tours to learn about the process and stay at local eco-lodges that are focused on minimizing their carbon footprints and sustainable farming. The tropical forests of Costa Rica offer many exhilarating activities for those looking for ecologically conscious adventure.

Rice Farming in Thailand:

Thailand has been a popular ecotourism destination for many years; visitors travel from across the globe to see Thailand’s pristine beaches, rivers, and mountains. In terms of agritourism, tourists can volunteer on local rice farms, one of the biggest agricultural sectors within the country. They also have the opportunity to participate in other aspects of the agriculture industry, such as animal husbandry and conservation. While in Thailand, tourists gain fresh insight into one of the world’s pioneers of ecotourism while enjoying the natural beauty that the country has to offer.

Organic Farming in the Philippines:

For the past 25 years, the Philippines Department of Tourism has been developing initiatives to bolster agritourism, and they have paid off. The diverse islands of the Philippines offer multiple types of agritourism in which tourists can take part. They can volunteer on large plantations or focus on smaller-scale operations that specialize in exotic fruit. With the aim of educating the public on organic farming practices, many of these farms hope to convince their visitors to spread the message of ecological conservation and sustainability.

Regardless of where you go, agritourism has the ability to bring you closer to your food and make you more conscious about your consumer habits. Tourists who are lucky enough to share in these experiences will find that they might return to their home countries with a deeper appreciation for their morning cup of coffee.